Brave hearts

Manama : Parenting a child is no way a 100-metre sprint, it’s a marathon and the miles to cover would only double if the child suffers from any disabilities. Bahrain Television in one of its ‘Tam’ series showed a couple who have been battling endless hardship as their only daughter Masooma - born after 28 years of marriage - suffers from cerebral palsy.

The show would become viral instantly on social media with many sharing their prayers and thoughts with the family. The programme’s hashtag was ranked second on Twitter, 30 minutes after its telecast and many were frank enough to express on social media that they failed to hold back their tears after watching the show.

“It touched hearts of many and some even shed their tears. This mother has been great for 29 years and never gave up,” said blogger Hussain Al Maliki. Another blogger, Haya Abbasi said: “God heal Masooma and give her mother and father health and wellness to hear her calling and talking to them.” The support that has poured in from different quarters of Bahraini society would serve a great respite for the couple who have been suffering, even financially, to give better care to their daughter.

 
“My sister and her husband went to many hospitals and after 28 years of longing we got our beautiful Masooma. My sister’s pregnancy was a bit complicate as she suffered from diabetes. But when Masooma was born, it was a great celebration in our family,” said Um Younis, Masooma’s aunt. Masooma’s mother broke down in tears when the show host asked about her daughter.
“God gave Masooma after 28 years of marriage. She has filled our lives with joy. She is our life and soul.”

Masooma’s mother said she took voluntary retirement to take care of her daughter. “My life is dedicated to my daughter. Me and my husband have been going through difficult times, both physically and mentally. All I wish is one day Masooma calling me ‘mama’, like every other child.” The TV programme threw many surprises to Masooma’s parents. Now they need to struggle to find money for Masooma’s education for one complete year as well as her treatment.

“I was not expecting this. The programme was a great help and I don’t associate any shame or harm with this. In fact, we all are brothers and sisters and should help each other,” said Masooma’s mother. Meanwhile, Masooma’s father said his feeling was indescribable. “Everything came as a surprise. I am really thankful to everyone.” Tam series is one of the most watched shows on Bahrain Television, which showcases the struggles of many Bahrainis while helping them with ways to come out of them. It also
aims to boost social solidarity to address the humanitarian issues in the Kingdom.